In February 2022, Agree Realty, in collaboration with Sachse Construction, Biddison Architecture, DesignTeam Plus, and Castell, embarked on a remarkable renovation/adaptive reuse of Art Van’s former furniture showroom on Woodward Avenue in Royal Oak, Michigan. Agree Realty’s goal for their headquarters was to breathe new life into the space and make it a stunning modern workplace for Agree Realty. Spanning 104,200 square feet of office and parking space, and 52,100 square feet of a new parking lot, the project encompassed six weeks of demolition followed by 52 weeks of careful renovation and innovative new construction.

Given that only the building’s structure could be salvaged, Biddison Architecture crafted a visionary design for the new office space. Among its standout features is a range of exceptional amenities that elevate the working environment to unprecedented levels. These include a spacious full-sized commercial kitchen, state-of-the-art fitness and locker rooms, an awe-inspiring 20′ x 60′ skylight, a brand-new bar and café, and high-end lighting fixtures. Furthermore, a well-designed balcony addition allows the Agree team to enjoy the outdoors.

The Sachse Construction team navigated the complex challenges of the design, deftly handling the installation of an impressive 26 miles of CAT6 data wiring. This feat nearly matches the distance to and from the Sachse Construction HQ in Midtown and Agree’s HQ in Royal Oak. The team also seamlessly incorporated over 220,000 feet of #12 THHN wire for the expansive 20′ x 60′ skylight installation.

Workstations and offices have been arranged to optimize access to natural daylight, views of Woodward Avenue, and open collaboration areas. The inclusion of a new gym and kitchen has significantly contributed to the well-being of the team, while the upgraded lighting fixtures have enhanced the overall office space. Additionally, a newly created parking space on the first floor ensures convenient accessibility for everyone.

Beyond its functional significance, this revitalized office space has become an integral part of the community. Bringing 150 new jobs to the area has improved local employment opportunities and contributed to the rebranding image of Metro Detroit. Moreover, its presence along the iconic Woodward corridor has generated increased foot traffic for nearby restaurants and shops, breathing new vitality into the local economy.

With their commitment to sustainability, the project team utilized over 25,000 units of reclaimed brick, minimizing waste, and preserving valuable resources. By avoiding the teardown of 110,000 square feet of non-recyclable debris, they demonstrated their dedication to environmental responsibility. The project team skillfully maintained the architectural integrity of the building and successfully transformed a large abandoned commercial structure on a historic Michigan street into a state-of-the-art office space that stands as a testament to the project team’s vision.